Paula Deans Fichtenkort, loving wife, mother, and grandmother, age 86, peacefully passed away on July 27, 2024.  She was born in County Durham, England on February 26, 1938.  Paula is survived by her husband Jim, daughters Nancy Fichtenkort Ross (Dave), Jane Fichtenkort Flaherty (Paul), Amy Fichtenkort Marjani (Keith), and five grandchildren (Mackenzie, James, Katelyn, PJ, and Jordan).  She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Stella Deans, brother Michael Deans, and sister Angela Deans Lingard.

Paula loved the arts, especially ballet. She acquired a degree in classical ballet from the Royal Academy of Dance in London.  She was active in her community and was crowned Miss Knaresborough in 1960. She worked for the UK government when she met her future husband Jim who was with the US Army. After a short courtship, she moved to the US and they were married on September 2, 1961, at St Mary's Catholic Church in West Point, IA.  Jim's job moved the family from Springfield, IL to Westport, CT, where Paula established her ballet school, The Academy of Dance.  She taught ballet for over fifty years with several of her students having successful careers as ballerinas.  She was affectionately known by her students as Mrs. Fitch or Miss Paula. After Jim's retirement, Paula and Jim moved to Hilton Head Island, SC where she continued her teaching in Savannah, GA. In 2021, Paula and Jim moved to Vero Beach, FL to be closer to their family.

Paula dedicated her life to her faith and family.  She was unselfish in all aspects of her life and no requests for help or assistance were ever rejected.  Paula's legacy is one of love, community, and a zest for life. She will be remembered for her kind heart, spirited personality, and the love and adoration she bestowed upon those around her.  She loved her family and students deeply, and the time spent with them was among her most cherished moments.  Her comforting manner, outgoing personality, and sense of humor will be greatly missed.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, August 23, 2024, at St. Helen's Catholic Church, Vero Beach, FL, at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Paula's name can be made to the VNA & Hospice Foundation 920 37th Place #101, Vero Beach, Fl 32960